During these days, all regular work was suspended, and there was nothing to do but to keep fires, and look after the stock.

This time was regarded as our own, by the grace of our masters, and we, therefore used it, or abused it, as we pleased.

Those who had families at a distance, were now expected to visit them, and to spend with them the entire week.

The younger slaves, or the unmarried ones, were expected to see to the cattle, and attend to incidental duties at home.

The holidays were variously spent.